Information on importing mobile phones into Australia

[Simon Matthews]

I noticed that Australia is not mentioned on the list of countries you
can ship to direct. Is this correct?

I have done done a quick search on bringing mobile phones that are not
covered by the A-Tick telecommunications regulations into Australia.

The system of regulation in Australia is that a supplier or manufacturer
applies for registration to use an "A-Tick" label. Once this is granted
you can place this sticker on any equipment you market but you are
responsible to have the equipment tested to the appropriate standards
and keep documentation of compliance. You may be audited and if the
documentation is not up to scratch legal action may be taken against
you. 

As far as i can see the customs service does not list non compliant
mobile phones as  prohibited or restricted goods and the following
statement from the regulatory authority http://www.acma.gov.au may
apply.

"A mobile phone (for personal use) may be brought into Australia and
connected to a mobile telecommunications network provided the phone
meets Australian standards.  If you are travelling and plan to purchase
a GSM mobile phone overseas, ACMA recommends that prior to departing
from Australia you contact your mobile carrier to find out what mobile
phones are suitable for use in Australia.  Some features on certain
models of mobile phones purchased overseas may not work on the
Australian mobile networks. There are no labelling requirements for a
mobile phone imported for personal use by this method."

This link gives more information
http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD//pc=PC_1687.

It is illegal to connect any equipment that does not comply with the
relevant standards up to the telecommunications network. Interestingly
enough i think you can still market the device if it is labelled as non
compliant and has the following label on it

WARNING: IT IS ILLEGAL TO CONNECT THIS ITEM TO ANY TELECOMMUNICATIONS
NETWORK OR FACILITY, UNLESS YOU HAVE PERMISSION

For more information see http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD//pc=PC_1687

Hope this is of use

Simon

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